The VW Golf R is likely at Frankfurt right now, awaiting its official unveiling. The 5-door, range-topping hatch will be offered to American buyers as well. It is powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine that produces 195kW.
At the Frankfurt Motor Show, Volkswagen will unveil the second R model in its current lineup. The Golf R shares the same basic architecture as the Scirocco R.
A 2.0-litre petrol turbo engine replaces the 3.2-litre V6 naturally aspirated in the Golf V R32. The engine produces 195kW (265hp), and 350 Nm of torque. For the 6-speed manual, the time to go from 0 to 100 km/h should take 6.5 seconds and for the DSG model it takes 6.4 seconds. These numbers are very comparable to the Audi S3 or the TT S, which is the engine that the Golf R shares with it.
You would be wrong to think it would be an upgrade to the GTI. There are many changes to the car, including a new front grille, LED daytime running lamps, a different set wheels, R side sills and R badgeging at the rear. The twin tailpipes almost join in the middle. The interior is sportier with two-tone sports seats and aluminum pedals. R badges are also used in places such as the flat-bottomed steering column.
Good news for US fans: The Golf R is heading for North America, according to reports. However, nothing has been confirmed about its 3-door Scirocco cousin.